Maletsunyane Falls

Maletsunyane Falls drops about 192 metres into a deep basalt bowl near the mountain village of Semonkong, Lesotho. Basotho horsemen in blankets ride the surrounding hills, and the only sounds are the wind and the water.

Why visit Maletsunyane Falls

The falls host one of the longest commercially operated abseils in the world, more than 200 metres down the cliff beside the water. Pony treks from Semonkong lead to the rim and to the gorge floor.

Best time to visit Maletsunyane Falls

Summer, November to March, brings the rain that feeds the falls. Winter can freeze the spray into icicles on the cliff.

How to get to Maletsunyane Falls

Semonkong is about three hours' drive from Maseru on a mountain road; stay at least two nights.

Seeing the falls

Maletsunyane Falls drops about 192 metres in a single fall into a deep basalt gorge. The name Semonkong, "place of smoke", refers to the spray. The walk from Semonkong to the viewpoints takes about an hour each way, or you can go on horseback with a local guide. A steeper path leads down into the gorge for the view from below.

Practical information

The falls are fullest in summer, November to March, when rain is frequent. In winter, June to August, they can partially freeze and nights are well below freezing. Semonkong sits at about 2,200 metres, so carry warm layers in any season. Guides and ponies are arranged locally. The abseil beside the falls depends on conditions and should be booked in advance.

Pair Maletsunyane Falls with a safari

Combine Lesotho with the Drakensberg and Tugela Falls just across the border.

Tips for visiting Maletsunyane Falls

Allow a spare day in Semonkong in case weather stops the abseil, and bring warm clothing for cold mountain nights. Pony treks to the rim are a good way to see the falls without the climb back up. For planning, see our Lesotho guide and the month-by-month water levels, or compare it with Africa's two most visited falls, Victoria Falls and Murchison Falls.

Things to do at Maletsunyane Falls

• Maletsunyane Falls Abseil: One of the longest commercially operated abseils in the world, down the cliff beside a 192-metre waterfall in Lesotho.

National parks and sights nearby

• Sehlabathebe National Park
• Thaba-Bosiu
• Drakensberg